Sensilla of the antennal flagellum in Pseudaletia unipuncta (Haw.) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Abstract

Seven sensilla were observed on the antennal flagellum of both sexes of Pseudaletia unipuncta (Haw.) (Lepidoptera : Noctuidae): chaetica Type I and Type II), styloconica, coeloconica, trichodea (Type 1a, b, c and Type II a, b), auricillica, nonporous and squamiformia. The major sexual dimorphism noted was the presence of Type la trichodea on the male antennae, suggesting that this sensillum may contain the receptor sites for the female sex pheromone. Differences in the size of sensilla coeloconica, auricillica and trichodea (Types Ib, IIb) were noted between sexes, being larger in females. Adults obtained from larvae fed on artificial diet generally had longer antennae and sensilla than those fed on young oat plants. © 1987.